Representative Hayes read the passage, his brow furrowed.
He wasn't a lawyer, but even he could see the enormous flexibility hidden in the wording.
"Mayor Wallace." Hayes looked up, tapping his finger on the fine print. "This phrase, 'adverse changes in the external policy environment'—what exactly does that refer to? A Federation interest rate hike? Or a trade war?"
Leo picked up the glass of water on the table and took a sip.
Then he looked at Hayes, his eyes calm.
"It's very simple, Representative Hayes."
"If your votes in Washington do not align with the principles of the Industrial Revival Alliance, which I lead."
"If you attempt to obstruct, delay, or veto any bill that benefits the development of this Alliance."
"Then, I will unilaterally determine that the external policy environment has undergone an adverse change."
Leo set the glass down with a soft click.
"At that point, I will terminate our cooperation."
